WSDOT Extends Deadline for Opening New 520 Bridge

The Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT) has extended the deadline for the opening of the new SR 520 floating bridge from December 2014 to July 2015, the state agency announced Friday.

According to a WSDOT news release, officials decided to extend the deadline as a way to worker reduce risk and draw in lower contractor bids for the project, which is expected to cost between $600 and $750 million.

“We still have a very aggressive schedule and are committed to open in December 2014, but decided that the contractors should have an option," WSDOT Deputy Transportation Secretary Dave Dye stated. "Providing schedule flexibility and financial incentives will reduce the risk for contractors and the state and result in lower bids.”

WSDOT is also offering a financial incentives of up to $2.5 million for contractors who complete bridge work as early as Dec. 1, 2014. WSDOT expects the lower bids provided by the extended deadline will offset any financial incentives, Dye said.

Meanwhile,  are expected to begin sometime this summer.

Visit the WSDOT website for more information.